While volume home builders in Melbourne are cost effective, they may not have the expertise of building on an elevated site. A home builder who is experienced in sloping blocks will know exactly which method to use once they see the land.
For many people, the ideal plot of land is a flat, square block. But Australia, being a land of diverse and rugged landscapes, tends to offer a number of sloping blocks.
A sloping piece of land however is not necessarily a bad thing. Sloping blocks mean you can enjoy wonderful views such as spectacular ocean scapes, city skylines and idyllic bushland. Working with the right home builder in Melbourne, you can turn your sloping block into a unique dream home.
What is a sloping block?
A sloping block is a block of land that has an uneven level of elevation. You’ll notice an incline or decline either sloping upwards from the road, or downwards towards the back of the house. In any case, sloping blocks are not flat like standard building sites, and may present a few building complexities. As a rule of thumb, any slope that rises more than two metres makes it harder to build on. But not many home builders in Melbourne may have the skills or knowledge to tackle this kind of build.
What are the challenges of building on a sloping block?
Building on a sloping block requires a higher attention to detail. When you engage a custom home builder, you need to make sure they take into account all the factors that affect building on undulating land.
One of the most important steps for building on a slope is getting a site analysis done. With a proper inspection you can get a clearer picture of the land – what potential views it offers, any drainage issues, any problems with access or slippage – and in general, how to avoid hazards such as flooding and soil erosion.
If you have a piece of land in mind and it is a sloping block, it is a good idea to consult a building specialist such as Housespec – even before you purchase the land. We can give you an overview of the land and help you understand the potential (and challenges) of building on it. Elevated homes on a sloping block may be slightly more expensive to build but they tend to increase in value more quickly over time.
How to build on a sloping block
When building on an uneven block of land, it is very important to prepare the foundation and drain the site. If these two steps are not done properly, the house may shift over time with dangerous repercussions later on.
Most home builders in Melbourne will build on a sloping block in three ways. One: you can cut directly into the land and create a flat surface on the ground floor. Two: you can build a split-level home, following the gradient of the land. Or three: you can build your house on stilts.
Levelling a site to build on transforms your lot into a more a buildable space using terraces and retaining walls. For split-level homes you need to be a little more innovative with the design, working with the existing terrain. Meanwhile building on stilts enables you to take advantage of beautiful sceneries and views. All three types of sloping builds have their individual pros and cons.
Hire a sloping block specialist
If you’re looking to build on an uneven block, make sure you hire someone who understands the unique challenges of building on a sloping block. While volume home builders in Melbourne are cost effective, they may not have the expertise of building on an elevated site. A home builder who is experienced in sloping blocks will know exactly which method to use once they see the land.
For more information about building on a sloping block, please contact us or book an appointment to visit our display centre.
